Becoming an LPN | The College Network

20 year veteran LPN works toward becoming an RN

Saturday, April 21, 2012 by TCN Success

“I have been an LPN for 20 years and knew that it was time to get my RN. I have procrastinated for many years but made a promise this year to start the program,” says Associate of Science in Nursing degree customer Cecilia Portillo.

“I received an email from a friend with The College Network information attached. When I called and met with Krista, it seemed very clear to me that this was the way to go,” Cecilia says of her decision to enroll in the online nursing degree program. “I have had many co-workers who did a self-study, go-at-your-own-pace program. They didn't have access to the online and phone support that The College Network provides. I can call anytime and someone always answers my questions.”

Cecilia admits that earning an advanced degree takes time and dedication. “It is hard sometimes. When you have young children and a full time job you think, ‘Wow, I just can't do it!’ but I have found that when I tell my family I need study time they are more than supportive of me and give me the time I need. I even have my children quiz me with the key words or the objectives.

Cecilia did it and so can you! Read more of her inspiring story or call 1-800-395-1014 to speak to a Program Advisor today.

Illinois Striving for 20% Registered Nurse Rate in Nursing Homes

Tuesday, March 13, 2012 by Charles Fox

Nursing homes, a stronghold of LPN jobs, may become progressively less so. Illinois, for one, is attempting to instate a new law requiring 20% of nurses in nursing homes to be RNs. The change would cost the state $122 million annually, but Illinois Governor Pat Quinn, as well as local advocacy groups, are pushing for the change because they believe that care from RNs prevents hospitalization. This information comes from an article on the Progress Illinois website.

If you are an LPN and you want to take action now to avoid worries about job security, do not fret. Give The College Network a call at 1-800-39-LEARN to find out how you can work towards obtaining RN status while continuing to work full time as an LPN through our online programs from top universities.

LPN: Why You Should Think About Your Bachelors

Wednesday, February 15, 2012 by Tracia Fernkas

Many LPNs dream of moving forward and becoming a registered nurse someday. And the majority of people decide that the best way to do this is by earning their Associate of Science in Nursing degree. But, did you know that you also have the option to earn your BS in Nursing as an LPN?

The College Network partners with Indiana State University to offer an LPN/LVN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. You can fulfill your dream of becoming an RN while earning your Bachelor's at the same time.

This might sound like a daunting prospect, but it is very doable and you can be successful in this program. Would it help to hear from other LPNs that achieved their degree?These are nurses just like you that worked hard and overcame obstacles to reach their goal. You can check out their success stories to give you inspiration. Just click here to find their stories.

If you would like to find out more about how you can best reach your goal--please give us a call at (800) 39-LEARN. We will make sure that we find the right program to help you become an RN.

Mom Earns Degree and Inspires Son

Friday, February 3, 2012 by TCN Success

Becoming an RN was something that Melodie Walton had always planned on, but just hadn’t made time for. “I talked about it for a long time. I was getting feedback from many different angles. Then I just did it,” she says.

Melodie enrolled in an online Associate of Science in Nursing Degree program with help from The College Network. For Melodie, it was important to find a degree program that did not interrupt her day to day life. “As an LPN I was offered a job I could not otherwise accept if I was in a classroom,” she explains.

The advanced career possibilities that will come with becoming an RN are something Melodie looks forward to, but the most rewarding part about being back in school is the impact it has on her son. “I am an example to my adult son who could not decide what he wanted to do. He is now enrolling in a college program.”

Read more of Melodie's inspiring story.

Best of Both Worlds

Monday, January 2, 2012 by Lawrence Bowlin

A BIG GULP, candy bar, snack potato chips and some lottery tickets. What does this sound like to you? They are things you get at a convenience store. From national chains to the local "Mom and Pop" quick stop, they're everywhere. We pay a higher price for things in these stores because of one major factor. No; not because you can put unlimited Cherry flavor shots into your huge 74 ounce soda cup. We do it for the convenience! A quick zip in and zip out, everything we need compacted into a space no larger than my wife's closet!

From 30 minute oil changes to drive up restaurants, we have become a nation of convenience addicts. I am guilty as charged! But convenience isn't always a bad thing. In some cases it can be the difference between having and not having.

The College Network, with our partnerships and associations with some of the top universities and colleges in the nation, has designed a way for you to obtain your Associate of Science in Nursing degree, BS in Nursing degree, MS in Nursing degree, Project Management certificate, Lean Six Sigma certification, or Paralegal certificate through a combination of distance learning and comprehensive learning modules. LPN to RN degree programs that allow you to work from any high-speed Internet connection, anytime, 24/7. This will allow you to learn and earn your degree in the most convenient way possible. Our goal is to make education fit into your life.

Convenience can be a good thing. Convenience joined with degrees from top universities is a very good thing. Better job security, higher pay, better quality of life, satisfaction of accomplishment all in a convenient online program. Want to know more? It's simple and convenient; just call me 1-800-307-1006 ext 2649.

What more could you ask for? Maybe a SUPER GULP?

I hope to hear from you!

Lawrence Bowlin
lbowlin@collegenetwork.com

What Do You Want To Be When You Grow Up?

Thursday, December 22, 2011 by Kevin Burton

As we approach the holiday season that brings gifts to many of us, it always reminds me of that spirit I get around this time of year. It brings out the kid in me, and thinking of all those toys from the past takes me back to my childhood. So, I'd like to ask you a question: What did you want to be when you grew up?

I remember watching movies like Star Wars, and growing up like a kid with my head in the clouds. I guess you can say I was your typical boy that dreamt of being an astronaut. Of course those days have since faded away, but I think to myself now and then, "What if...?" After thinking about "What If?" I realized that my time and your time has not passed you by. You can still change your life to point it in the direction that you want(ed) to go. Instead of asking what you wanted to be when you grew up, I'm now asking what do you want to be WHEN you grow up?

The College Network can make these dreams possible. We have higher education online from our partner universities in the form of professional certificates and degree seeking programs. So if you wanted to be a lawyer, you can pursue the Boston University Paralegal Certificate and work your way into the legal field. If you wanted to be an astronaut like me, consider the Project Management Certificate through Boston University Corporate Education Center or the Lean Six Sigma Certificate program through a leader in the aerospace industry, Purdue University. If you wanted to be in the medical field, and you are an LPN/LVN or Paramedic now, we can help you become an RN and move up the ladder in your career.

So, if you think you're a grown up, but still have childhood dreams, feel free to contact us today and we'll be more than happy to help in assisting you toward your goals.

Kevin Burton, Program Advisor, kburton@collegenetwork.com, 1-800-307-1006 Ext. 4734

Indiana State University Professor Honored by NLN

Monday, December 19, 2011 by Lindsay Schmitt

Betsy Frank, PhD, RN, ANEF; a professor emeritus at Indiana State University was honored for excellence in teaching at the recent NLN Education Summit 2011.

In the article found at http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_hb3317/is_6_32/ai_n58502666/, Dr. Frank discusses technology and how it has changed teaching.

"Who could have imagined 40 years ago that we could teach effectively online? I know I didn't! But I can say that teaching online has made me a much better teacher--even in the classroom."

Dr. Frank is a strong advocate for nurses becoming educators. She earned her doctorate degree at the age of 35, and encourages others to receive advanced education as early as possible to allow them to grow in their careers.

"Noting that not all students will be successful, despite the best efforts of faculty, Betsy concludes that in the main, 'Our focus on students will help them be successful in whatever they choose to do. It is the solid educational foundation that allows our students to take flight!'"

The College Network would like to congratulate Dr. Betsy Frank on her accomplishment!

If you would like to learn more about the online LPN to BS in Nursing programs and RN to BS in Nursing programs available from Indiana State University where Dr. Frank teaches, click here or call 1-800-395-1014 for more information.

Rise In Nursing Program Enrollment Continues

Thursday, December 15, 2011 by Charles Fox

American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) reports that there was a 3.9% increase in enrollment for BS in Nursing programs this year. Since the year 2000, there has been an annual rise in nursing school enrollment. from 2009 to 2010, there was a 5.7% increase!

“With the Institute of Medicine and other leading authorities calling for significant increases in the number of nurses with baccalaureate and graduate degrees, moving to prepare a more highly educated nursing workforce has become a national priority,” said AACN President Kathleen Potempa, quoted on ModernHealthCare.com.

What does this mean to you? If you are an LPN--go for RN status! Associate prepared or Diploma RN? Think about the online BS in Nursing or the RN to MSN program! BSN Nurse? Time for the MSN! The demand for nurses continues to increase, but so do educational expectations. Research The College Network and see how we can help you to become more competitive in the ever-expanding nursing field!

Home for the Holidays

Wednesday, December 14, 2011 by Kevin Burton

There is nothing like being home for the holidays. A nice snowy December day with a fire and family suits me just fine. In this spirit, I'd like to share a story of one of our recent customers at The College Network who is also happy to be home for the holidays.

Shelby from Colorado had previously been an LPN, but took a job outside the medical field to pursue a new opportunity. This new job had her traveling for days and weeks at a time. She missed being there for her sons football games, and missed tucking her daughter into bed at night. Because she wanted to be home for her family and still make the best living possible, she decided to find nursing programs that allow her to continue working while pursuing a convenient RN license. That's when we started to speak. Shelby's main goal was to be home for the holidays, and now that she is on her way to becoming an RN, she is on track to be there for many years to come while earning a better living. Congratulations Shelby!

If you are interested in an online degree or certificate program that can help you be home for the holidays, let us know and we are happy to help!

Kevin Burton, Program Advisor, 1-800-307-1006 Ext. 4734, kburton@collegenetwork.com

Number of RNs in California Surges

Tuesday, December 13, 2011 by Charles Fox

There is an extremely high projected nursing need to account for the baby boom generation's aging and the healthcare system's expansion, and young people are increasingly stepping up to fill the gap. According to a study mentioned in an article on LATimes.com, the number of RNs aged 23-26 was at 165,000 in 2009, as compared to only 102,000 in 2002. The number is only going up, and if it continues the need for nurses may possibly be filled. California is certainly a hotbed of activity for new RNs--2002 saw only 5,300 people graduate from nursing schools in the state, whereas the 2009 number was over 11,500.

I talk to people in California on the phone all the time, and they tell me that the wait time for entrance into local nursing schools is very long. If you live in California and you want to become an RN, your options are not limited to local schools with swelling student populations. The online LPN to BSN program, offered by Indiana State University in partnership with The College Network, is a smart route to becoming a BSN Nurse that allows you to work and/or raise your family and complete your education when it is convenient for you---without the wait time!

If you are interested in learning more, give me a call at 1.800.378.8515. extension 4768, or checkout collegenetwork.com!

Nurse Works Towards Life Long Dream

Wednesday, December 7, 2011 by TCN Success

For Sherry Luckenbaugh, earning her online nursing degree was more than just a career move. "My dream had been to become an RN." Sherry was working as an LPN when she decided to enroll in the Associate of Science in Nursing Degree program. "I was encouraged to use The College Network from my coworker," she says.

Sherry is enjoying the experience of being back in school. "It feels wonderful to continue my education as an adult learner and has increased my self esteem." Developing a study routine has helped her stay on track in the program.

When she needed help, Sherry turned to The College Network for support. “I really appreciated the helpfulness and kindness of the academic advisors through The College Network,” Sherry said.

Read more of Sherry's inspiring story here, or if you would like more information on our online degree programs, call 1-800-395-1014.

Ironman Bachelors Degree

Wednesday, November 23, 2011 by Kevin Burton

Many of you have heard of the Ironman competition. It consists of a 3 part test of endurance, competition, and will power. The 3 legs of the Ironman competition, consisting of a swim, bike ride, and marathon made me think of how the LPN/Paramedic to BS in Nursing through The College Network and Indiana State University is its own test of endurance and will power.

Below is a recap of how the Online LPN to BS in Nursing works, and its Ironman equivalent.

Phase I – The College Network (Ironman Equivalent = 2.4 Mile Swim)

Study The College Network’s Comprehensive Learning Modules and complete end-of-course equivalency exams to earn credit for your prerequisite and nursing courses (link to program brochure)
Experience learning entirely online in our Online Resource Center (link to the ORC demo) which is designed to uniquely compliment various learning styles
Work at your own pace (If you can commit to studying an average of one hour per day, you can expect to test out of a course once every 3-6 weeks)
Succeed with The College Network. We guarantee you will pass each exam and offer academic support via phone, email, and online chat 5 days a week
Take your exams online from the comfort of your home.

Phase II – Complete 4 Customized Study Modules (Ironman Equivalent = 112 Mile Bike Ride)

Apply and enroll into Indiana State University
Study the 4 College Network Customized Study Modules (CSMs) to test out of those 4 courses
Take and pass your 4 CSM Exams Online Directly Through Indiana State

Phase III – Indiana State University and Clinicals (Ironman Equivalent = 26.2 Mile Run (aka a marathon)

Apply to the Indiana State Nursing School
Complete 12 remaining nursing courses through Indiana State online
All remaining courses are online, asynchronous, and based on 16 week semesters with summers off
Complete your clinical hours with a preceptor at a local facility
Graduate with your Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Indiana State University
- Average completion time for your BSN degree is 3-5 years (Phases I and II are self-paced, whereas Phase III is not)
Prepare for your state RN boards with The College Network “Rx for NCLEX Success” (link to more info) developed in partnership with the National League for Nursing
Become an RN and earn up to $20,000 more annually!

So what are you waiting for? Would you rather compete in the Ironman competition, or get going on your online nursing degree? Either way, let me know, and I'll be happy to help you get started (at least on the nursing program)!

Kevin Burton, Program Advisor, 1-800-307-1006 Ext. 4734, kburton@collegenetwork.com

Defying Reality

Tuesday, October 4, 2011 by Landon Jones

The desire to go back to school is easier said than done in some instances. Growing up I had limited educational options presented to me, but you would not have known considering my upbringing. I remember being six years old talking with my father about my career aspirations:

Dad: What do you want to be when you grown up?
Six year old me: A CARTOONIST!
Dad: How will you become a cartoonist?
Six year old me: Drawing all the time!
Dad: What school will you go to become a better artist?
Six year old me: Hillman College!

You see I thought Hillman College was a real school located somewhere in a far away land. What I didn't know is that Hillman College was a college created by the television writers for A Different World. My father and my family were proud that I had my mind set on college at such a young age because where I grew up I didn't come across too many college graduates. Neither did my classmates as I transitioned from year to year. There are literally a handful of my family members who have gone to and completed a undergraduate education, not because they didn't want to--the tools and resources provided to them were scarce and as they grew older so did their responsibilities.

I found an article recently that covers why so many adults have difficulty finishing their undergraduate education. The stories were very similar to the LPNs, RNs, and Paramedics who, at one point, were enrolled in a school with the intent of having a degree in advanced nursing education and how it was difficult for them to complete it. Some stopped after having children and pursuing families, stopped halfway through and decided on receiving their LPN license, or couldn't afford to go back.

Written by Jorge Rivas, this article shows that in a study conducted by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation 75% of the college population were attending school part-time while juggling families and careers and 25% of the college population were in school full-time. Those who are in school part time are still not graduating even if they take a longer amount of time to do so.

http://colorlines.com/assets_c/2011/09/college-part-times-whogetscounted-4278.html

Even worse is students who are enrolled part-time are not documented by the Federal Government, so that means that there are no programs designed to improve part-time students retention rates by the government.

The study offers solutions like fixed schedules that appeal to students' jobs, allowing a fast track program and shorter class times that have students receiving their degrees at a faster pace, and classes that offer review but aren't the premise of the entire course.

The College Network immediately came to mind because the study recommended online programs as a solution as well. Generally, people believe that sitting in a classroom increases their chances of completing a nursing program but that's not always true--especially if you believe that a teacher will hold you accountable for for being done. The reason why The College Network offers online nursing programs is so that those health care professionals seeking a degree from top nursing schools can receive their degree at their own pace while juggling responsibilities.

Landon, Appointment Coordinator

Arizona Nurses Speak For Themselves Against Funding Cuts

Monday, September 26, 2011 by Charles Fox

A current advertisement campaign in Arizona allows nurses to speak up against the continuing trend of funding cuts for nursing homes due to the federal deficit. The long-term and post-acute care industries of Arizona are pushing forward with a new ad campaign focusing on the importance of well-staffed, high-quality nursing homes.

"Working in a nursing home is not just a job; it's a calling," said Barbara Harrison, LPN, of Choice Rehab Care in Sun City West, quoted by Arizona Health Care Association on PRNewswire. "It's so rewarding to interact with my residents and make certain I'm helping them enjoy a good quality of life every day. However, I am deeply concerned that additional cuts to nursing homes may make it difficult for me to do this job that I love. These residents become like family, and I want to help protect and care for them."

Unfortunately, this provides another example of the lack of job security that is becoming the norm for many LPNs. If you are in Arizona and you are thinking about taking the next step to becoming an RN, feel free to contact me at cfox@collegenetwork.com and I will respond with an Associate Degree in Nursing overview.

Ohio Nurses: It's Time to Become a RN

Tuesday, September 20, 2011 by Charles Fox

According to an article in the Akron Beacon Journal, Akron General Medical Center has announced that it is cutting 70 Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) positions, and filling the spots with Registered Nurses. All of the jobs that were lost were in inpatient care, which will now be exclusively staffed by RNs. There remain 82 LPNs on the Akron General Medical Center payroll, but all of them are in outpatient care and other areas. There are a total of 1,005 registered nurses working at the hospital, and more will be hired.

If you are a LPN in Ohio, we can help! Becoming a RN is no longer just about increased salary and responsibility, it is about increased job security. Obtain a convenient RN License through an Associate Degree of Nursing or LPN to BS in Nursing online. In a rapidly changing job market that is leaving many LPNs unemployed, The College Network is stepping up to provide a convenient transition to RN status. Don't wait until it's too late---invest in your education and your career today!

Funding Your Education

Wednesday, September 14, 2011 by Landon Jones

For the past few days, I've been maxed-out and for good reason; a lot of you have been calling in requesting to meet with local Program Advisors about advancing your nursing education through our distance nursing programs. In coming weeks, many of you will sit down with your local Program Advisor to receive information about our associate's, bachelor's and master's in nursing programs from leading universities and at the end of those meetings, many of you will be enrolled in those programs on your way to becoming RNs or gain advanced degrees.

The other day I spoke with a LPN who said that she rushed home to call me, because she was interested in receiving her Bachelors Degree in Nursing from Indiana State University and wanted to meet with a Program Advisor as soon as possible. She was ready to enroll. She had always wanted to be a RN but financial reasons and other obligations prevented her from completing a previous RN program. She was ready to enroll because her employer offered to pay for her and her coworkers to become RNs.

Its not uncommon for me to speak with people who have their employer or the military pay for their education, but she could not stop talking about how highly The College Network is held at her employer. I ended up setting the appointment for her that day to meet with her local advisor, and I definitely cannot wait to see her story from her point of view on our My TCN Story Blog real soon.

Landon, Appointment Coordinator

Local Nurses Participate in Harvard's Nurses Health Study Program

Wednesday, August 31, 2011 by Charles Fox

Nurse Jennifer Pierle. Photo credit: Olivia Corya, Indianapolis star

"I got into nursing to help other people be healthy, so why not do research to help other people be healthy?" -Nurse Jennifer Pierle, as told to The Indianapolis Star

Jennifer Pierle is a nurse in the oncology department at Community North Hospital. She recently joined a group of about 238,000 nurses who have joined Harvard's Nurses Health Study program, detailed in a recent article in The Indianapolis Star. The research focuses on women's health, and encourages nurses to provide stellar examples to patients of the embodiment of healthy lifestyles. Jennifer lost 50 pounds as a symbol of her commitment to being healthy.

According to the article, many nurses in the program are more aware of their own health as a result of their participation. Kudos to Jennifer and all of the other nurses both locally and nationally who are leading by example and aiding healthcare research simultaneously. Hopefully the ability to aid field research as such will encourage those who are on the line and considering becoming an LPN or wanting to become an RN.

Back to School

Monday, August 22, 2011 by Landon Jones

For many of you it's that time of the year. I can tell because the other day while I was out buying groceries, I noticed that "End of Summer" shift. Children's faces were frowned, and parents had great big smiles. Their vacation was slowly beginning and their children's were slowly coming to a end... Back to School shopping was in full effect.

Last week, while speaking with nurses who have children, you could hear it in their voices. They didn't even have to say it, but school was back in session.

All hail the school bell as it lures children away from leaving toys around the house and twenty-four hour Sponge Bob sessions...

For parents with college-bound youth, it may be a little hard to let your baby go but also understand, once they cross that threshold into semi-adulthood - YOU HAVE THE HOUSE BACK! When my mom dropped me off my freshmen year of college, she cried. The next 3 times she couldn't get me out of the car soon enough, and when she picked me up my senior year, she cried again.

I joke of course, they were tears of joy but during those four years of discovering myself, my mother did the same. Her hair styles changed as mine did, she went outside more, and she began the process of going to college as well.

As fall approaches and the noise levels in your homes decrease, definitely think about going back to school yourself. Think about the many programs The College Network offers to mothers, fathers, uncles, aunts, and grandparents who want to receive nursing degrees. Did I mention that you don't have to travel to Colorado to become a MSN at Regis University or to New York or Indiana for LPN, LVNs and Paramedics seeking a RN Program with no waiting list.

The College Network offers distance nursing programs that people pursue while on their lunch breaks, weekends, and while kids are in school. If it sounds like something that you would be interested in, you can learn more about nurses just like you who have completed our programs. Visit www.mytcnstory.com.

Landon, Appointment Coordinator

Welcome to the Bridge!

Friday, August 5, 2011 by Charles Fox

Bridge is defined as a connecting, transitional, or intermediate route or phase between two adjacent elements, activities, conditions, or the like.

As an Appointment Coordinator, I have a lot of time to think about bridges and talk about them with people who need them. The College Network's bridge programs are a lot like bridges over rocky waters - once people start the voyage, they feel propelled forward and seldom look back.

In this case, the bridge is from LPN or LVN (Licensed Practical Nurse or Licensed Vocational Nurse) to RN (Registered Nurse). A lot of LPNs and LVNs feel like they deserve to be on the other side, and are anxious to get on the bridge. They feel that they can do everything that RNs can, and often they do perform many of the same tasks as RNs on a daily basis, but they lack the salary and job security that RNs have.

If you are standing on one side of the river and wondering what it would be like to become an RN, give us a call at The College Network today: 1-800-39-LEARN.

There is no time like the present, and why shouldn't you take on the responsibility, gain the job security, and earn the salary that you know you deserve? Whether it is the online LVN or LPN to BS in Nursing, or the Online LVN or LPN to AS in Nursing, we have an NLNAC Accredited program that is right for you. It's always taking the first step that's the hardest, but our friendly staff and Program Advisors are here to help, and we have one thing in mind at the end of the day: to see you cross that bridge and achieve success in your life and career. Get on the bridge, and you won't regret it.

The Definition of a Nurse

Wednesday, May 18, 2011 by Tracia Fernkas

Have you ever looked up what the definition of a nurse is in the dictionary? Dictionary.com defines it as, "a person formally educated and trained in the care of the sick." While this description states what you are as a nurse, it says nothing about what defines you as a nurse.

You need to have the right education to become a nurse, but the best nurses are about much more than an education. Nurses combine calm under pressure attitudes with a huge amount of caring and heart.

At The College Network, we can help you attain the education you need to achieve your dream, whether you would like to become an LPN or move forward to become an RN. Because our online degree programs are self-paced, you can reach your goal easily, on your own schedule. The hard part is the intangible side; it is the caring and heart that we couldn't possibly teach you. You are the one that has to possess those traits and be willing to share them with everyone. That, to me is the true definition of a great nurse.

So, how do you define yourself, as the nurse you are or the nurse you want to be? We care about your success and want to help you get there. Call us today at 1-(800)395-1014 or click here to get started.